Pedal Power - Ride for Roswell Reaches 17th Year

BUFFALO, N.Y. - The area's top cycling event continues to expand as the Ride for Roswellrolls out Friday and Saturday for the 17th year. It's now a 2-day event.

This year, organizers have added an opening ceremony on Friday night at UB Stadium, and then the ride itself takes place on multiple routes to and from Baird Point at UB's Amherst campus on Saturday morning.

Friday night's opening ceremony will feature an inspirational speech from former Buffalo Bill Chris Spielman, a video message from Lance Armstrong, and a concert from 80's rock star Rick Springfield. The ceremony is open to riders, volunteers, along with Roswell patients and survivors.

2-On-Your-Side's Adam Benigni, who has served as spokesperson for this event for the past six years, will co-host the ceremony along with former Buffalo Bill Steve Tasker.

The Ride continues to expand every year, and the field of cyclists is expected to exceed 8,000. Last year's event raised $3.2-million, and the total this year could reach $4-million.

Funds raised go to support patient care, and research at Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo.